Users' Perceptions of the Influence of Material Selection on Perceived Sound Insulation Performance in Educational Facilities in Lagos State, Nigeria

Abstract

Educational facilities require acoustically comfortable environments to support effective teaching, learning, and communication. However, many Nigerian universities continue to experience classroom noise due to inadequate consideration of acoustic performance during material selection and building design. This study examined users' perceptions of the influence of material selection on perceived sound insulation performance in educational facilities in Lagos State, Nigeria. Specifically, it investigated the effects of Material Density and Thickness (MDT), Porosity and Durability (PD), and Cost Effectiveness (CE) on Perceived Noise Reduction Level (PNRL) and Perceived Sound Transmission Loss (PSTL). A quantitative descriptive and explanatory research design, underpinned by the Acoustic Theory of Sound Transmission and Environmental Comfort Theory, was adopted. Data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 200 lecturers, final-year students, facility managers, and technical staff selected from six public and private universities using stratified random sampling. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis were performed using SPSS and EViews at a 5% significance level. The findings revealed that MDT, PD, and CE exerted weak and statistically insignificant influences on PNRL and PSTL, although PD demonstrated a marginal positive effect on PSTL. The study contributes perception-based evidence on sound insulation performance in Nigerian educational buildings. The findings are limited by reliance on users' perceptions and the geographical focus on Lagos State. Practically, the study highlights the need to integrate material selection with architectural design, construction quality, and noise-control strategies. The findings guide professionals and policymakers in developing sustainable learning environments that improve acoustic comfort, student well-being, and educational outcomes.